Optima unveils OP5-E MID with Maemo
Looking much like an iPhone but having more in common with a keyboard-less Nokia N810 Internet Tablet, the OP5-E MID by Optima is currently undergoing one last round of software tests before launch.
While the 5.6" x 2.9" x 0.69" slate's 806MHz Marvell PXA320 CPU, 128MB RAM, 256MB ROM, T-flash/microSD card slot (up to 16GB supported), and 4.3-inch WVGA resistive touchscreen may not be enough to immediately grab your attention, its integrated 3G capability and Maemo Linux operating system certainly make the device more interesting.
GPS, 802.11b/g WiFi, Bluetooth 2.0, a 3.2-megapixel camera, future phone functions, and 8-hour runtime (2600mAh li-polymer battery) round out the 10.6-ounce handheld's strong points.
I believe Optima is an Australian company, so I'm not sure why the OP5-E looks to be launching only in China. I'm also puzzled by the inclusion of Maemo, which I always thought was reserved for Nokia's Internet Tablets (no?), though its active developer and user community obviously make it a stellar choice.
I don't know if we'll ever hear anything more about the Optima OP5-E outside of China, but I'm adding it to my watchlist just in case. There appears to be an English language option in the OS, as well as English input methods, so it's possible that Optima could travel Aigo's path and make it to US shores fairly easily.
Update: Optima is now a Chinese company (official website). Here's the news release and product page. Thanks, icurafu!
Photos and early info from PCPop.com (thanks, ruppa!).
